Unit III Ancient History.
12 October 2011
Christianity in Korea
GROUP 1: Origins of the Korean Church
1. Why do you think the first time Christianity entered Korea, it attracted no converts and had basically no influence on the Korean people or society?
- When Christianity first entered Korea, it attracted no converts and had basically no influence on the Korean people or society since Confucianism was the main philosophy, and since it was brought by the Japanese. Also, it was monotheistic, therefore different than normal.
2. What is unique about how the first Christian church was established in Korea as compared to the formation of early churches in other parts of the non-western world?
- The unique part about the first established Christian church compared to other parts of the non-western world is that they inherited Christianity from China, and was greatly influenced by them.
3. How might this unique start have continued to influence how Christianity is regarded in Korea?
- This unique start might have continued to influence Christianity by being viewed as a Chinese religion. However, Christianity has different beliefs than other systems, such as a promising afterlife, and even equality among all genders, ages, and classes. - It was brought in by influenced Koreans of Christianity, so it would be sort of more embraced.
Reading number and Title
Period being addressed
Three major (the power of three, sometimes you get two sometimes four) points drawn from this period
1 Origins of Korean Church
1780
First Korean contact with Christianity was in 1592.
First scholars were Confucianist scholars.
First Korean Church established in 1784, by Yi Sunghun and Yi Pyok.
2 Growth of Christianity
1780-1880
고려 was based on Buddhism, but was exploited.
조선 was based on Confucianism, but later Catholicism came in.
- equality, marriage, afterlife (heaven) appealed to lower class and women.
around 8,000
3 Protestantism
1880-1910
1884 Dr. Horace N. Allen = first Protestant missionary (physicist in Seoul)
- gained trust from King
- medical schools, schools, education,
23,000-250,000 increase (1000% increase)
4 Japanese Imperialism
1910-1945
Japanese forced to become Shintoists, punished a lot, but still harshly treated
삼일운동,1919(march first movement): majority were Christians
5 Korean Christianity
1945-present
aided Koreans during Korean War and until now.
여의도: biggest
popularity exponentially increased, second major religion
education and democracy spread.
11 October 2011
Shaminism questions from class groups.
1. How has Shamanism influenced Korea? List three ways.
- able to rely on the spirits during hard times, and receive guidance.
2. Why are fortune-telling and Shamanism still practiced in Korea?
- It's still practiced to earn reliance and gain help to vanish bad spirits.
3. List three questions you believe are most commonly asked of fortune tellers in Korea. Are they markedly different than those questions asked by people in other nations which seek the assistance of a fortune-teller?
- Marriage, money, living long
4. What do these proverbs/maxims (and others that you know) teach you about Korean culture? Why do Koreans use proverbs as a medium to teach and communicate ideas?
- They are easy to connect, and the analogy applies to many people. Although made long ago, they are still prominent.
5. What role do folktales play in all cultures?
- Folktales show how a fortune teller could have a lot of integrity and also sometime can be right, like seeing through the rat (seeing the deep side).
Shintoism & Shaminism
1. Examine the films in Document 6. List all the items found and explain their significance.
- Hanbok: traditional Korean clothing, expressing nationality?
- swords: violence? towards the bad guys, so they go away...
- fan: to blow away the bad guys
- jae-sa table: in remembrance of those, and respecting
- dolls: not so sure, maybe children?
- music: to grab attention
2. Describe your group's feelings in viewing the films.
- I feel that it is a very different approach of 'religion' and not so common to teenagers my age. I've never seen a real performance like that, and I was sort of shocked and confused. Even being a Korean here for about 7 years, I couldn't understand most of the words. I wonder how this all started, and I recall Mr. Plouffe talking about how mudangs get paid a lot. Why?
3. How do the films express Korean religious beliefs and practices?
- The films are sort of too quick to judge Korean religious beliefs and practices just yet, since this is only part of the traditional ways. I think this is kind of too conservative, and seemingly weird from my point of view. It's not only ear-disturbing, but also doesn't seem to impress me.
4. The first film above was shot during a kut after Namdaemun had been burnt down. Explain why this kut was performed?
Namdaemun, or Seoul's south doorway, Soongryemoon, was burnt down by a crazy maniac, and this was done as remembrance of it. Since it was burnt down by an evil spirit, the kut was performed so the evil spirits will vanish as well.
Shintoism Retrieval Chart
Legalism
1. In Han Fei's ideal state what is the supreme governing authority, the will of the ruler or the law?
- In Han Fei's ideal state, the supreme governing authority is the law itself. This is obvious according to a few quotes such as "if conformers to law are strong, [then] the country is strong" and "to govern the state by law is to praise the right and blame the wrong". This makes sense people who make the law are the intelligent leaders, like modern day Congress.
2. What are the "Two Handles" and how important are they to a legalist state? Why must the sovereign never surrender control over the two handles?
- According to Han Fei, the "Two Handles" are chastisement and commendation, which is punishment and praising, respectively. The sovereign should never surrender control over the two handles since their absence may cause calamity, where people would turn to the ministers who have more power --> corruption.
3. What roles do individuality and private initiative play in Han Fei's ideal state?
- Individuality and private initiative play different roles in Han Fei's ideal state. Regarding individuality, it would allow people to gain more independence and think for themselves, following law and order. For private initiatives, it would be crucial to follow the national law and morals, rather than their own set of rules.
4. Why do you think Legalism appealed to some people?
- Legalism appealed to many, not just some. According to the document, "If penalty is severe, the noble cannot discriminate against the humble. lf law is definite, the superiors are esteemed and not violated. If the superiors are not violated, the sovereign will become strong and able to maintain the proper course of government." clearly shows why legislatures embraced Legalism. It was organized, and seemed perfect. However, of course those seemingly idealistic ideas only work if people DO follow the laws...which is difficult to happen 100% of the time.
5. Imagine a series of conversations among a Daoist, a Confucian, and a Legalist. How would each respond on the following issues: What is the purpose of good government? What role does morality play in formulating law? What are the qualities of a superior ruler? The proposition "Might makes right."
- During a series of conversations among a Daoist, a Confucianist, and a Legalist, there will be many overlaps but many major differences. Here is a list of what they will say:
"What is the purpose of a good government?"
D: There is no need of a government. The people should all be independent and know how to act. The government shouldn't be too different from the people.
C: A good government is necessary for people to follow the leader and government. The government should be flawless and a great model.
L: Hence the name, a good government that makes good laws would allow a stable and organized society. Punishing is crucial, so everyone is in order.
"What role does morality play in formulating law?"
D: Taoism is formed with compassion and courage, and naturally forming the law. With these qualities, the Wu Wei would be in a society.
C: All laws should be moral, and should make sense. Considering your family or society is crucial, as well as other Confucianist laws.
L: It doesn't matter who you are, if you did something wrong you need punishment. Not following the law itself is immoral, therefore you deserve punishment.
"What are the qualities of a superior ruler?"
D: A superior ruler must not be greedy, but accepting nature and going with the flow. He should be simple, and be like Winnie the Pooh.
C: He or she should be a good ruler, one who is smart and strong. He must also be just and reasonable. He should be like wind, where if he blows anywhere, the people will be like grass.
L: In Legalism, the leader should be exact with law and follow all means of the law. Also, he should grasp control of the main "Two Handles", chastisement and commendation. He should punish those so no one would dare challenge, and praise those who are right so people would act like them. The ministers should have less power than the ruler.
October 7th 2011
Essential Quotes of Taoism - questions
1. In Lectures on the Tao Teh Ching, Lao-Tzu says, that, "The mystery of the Mysterious is the gateway to all indescribable marvels". Does this quote have an equivalent to in Christianity? Are there other parts of the Tao Teh Ching that remind you of Christian ideals?
- This quote is equivalent to the idea of Heaven in Christianity. In the Holy Bible, no one knows about Heaven, it’s just known as a sacred, holy place, rather than mysterious. In Tao Teh Ching, there was a part where it said “the Tao that can be said is not the everlasting Tao,” and I believe that the way of Tao in general is not mentionable, therefore beyond our own limitations. I saw a similar connection with Christianity, where God is also so superior that we should be careful when mentioning Him. We can see this when people capitalize ‘him’ or ‘he’ or ‘his’. Furthermore, “oh, my God” is also something to be aware of.
2. See Passage 2, "Not honoring men....Not wanting rare things...Not paying attention..." How are does this help one understand how Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism found common ground and were not mutually exclusive belief systems?
- This helps one understand how Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism found common ground and were not mutually exclusive belief systems by many similarities the possess within each other. First, in “Not honoring men of worth keeps the people from competing”, this is exactly what Confucianism wants; the idea of merit and education or skill, rather than filial piety. Second, in “Not wanting rare things keeps the people from thievery,” this shows that you shouldn’t be greedy or desire for more. In Buddhism, we learned that wanting more is what causes suffering, and preventing Nirvana. So we could say the two ideas overlap. Finally, “Not paying attention to the desirable keeps the hearts of the people from disaster” is the Taoist belief that you shouldn’t mind ideas or stuff that is not directly related to you. All of these philosophies (& religion[Buddhism]) coexist and are not mutually exclusive.
3. In Passage 2, what do you think is meant by the lines, "relaxing the mind, reinforcing the abdomen, gentling the will, strengthening the bones"?
- I think the lines "relaxing the mind, reinforcing the abdomen, gentling the will, strengthening the bones" mean the same goal, but in different paths, which are represented in the three main philosophies; Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. “Gentling the will” sounds like alleviate your soul that desires more; this is always discussed in Buddhism. Also, “reinforcing the abdomen” approached me as to strengthen your vertebrate, or back bone. When you have a firm backbone, in other words settled basics, you’ll be able to act accordingly and absorb more information and knowledge. I believed that this was similar to Confucianism, where you want more knowledge. Last, “relaxing the mind” is obviously where in Taoism you want to leave your brain from being to complex; and achieve inner peace with your mind and the nature. Yin and Yang’s balance is important, and I recalled Kung Fu Panda where Po had to achieve inner peace. For “strengthening the bones”, I think it means that after you’re ready, take challenges and make yourself out in the bigger world.
4. Consider the last three entries from D.C. Lau's Lao Tzu: Tao Te Ching, Lao Tzu describes government. How is this ideal different from Confucius' ideal? What present day system of government are you reminded of when you read this section? Do you think this is a good system? Explain.
- This ideal is different from Confucius’ ideal strongly because Lao Tzu doesn’t want a government. His view is that the government shouldn’t be too different from the people. This is obviously contrasting from Confucius’ ideal, since he wanted a strong, set government that sets examples for the people. In other words, the leader or ruler or king should be like the wind, and blow on any kind of grass (people). When reading this section, I was reminded of anarchy, which seems very chaotic. In my opinion, this is a horrible system in which there is no organization and then there won’t be a set way to act. With no unity, a nation would definitely suffer through economic/social/political crisis.
5. Regarding the third treasure that Lao Tzu describes, what do you think is his message? Do you agree? What does this say about people who are ambitious?
- I think Lao Tzu’s message regarding the third treasure is in life, to reach a certain goal you shouldn’t be too desirable, but be modest and stay patient. I am 100% against this. This says that ambitious people are failures, and that they won’t go anywhere. Then I want to ask the question on whether or not being desirable and wanting motivates you. In my opinion, you always need to dream about your future and want what that goal is. Life is for a better you, and it’s just your beautiful, precious life. Wanting to make it shine more and glow in the dark is what everyone should think in society, so he/she can work for that goal and achieve the ecstasy of accomplishment in the end. In conclusion, I would like to address that Lao Tzu’s model is never correct because everyone wants that something, and everything has competition in the world. Having your own accurate set goal will allow you achieve it, not anything else.
September 30th 2011
Taoism Butterfly Poem reflection...
1. Why does the author choose a butterfly?
The author chooses a butterfly because it represents that even a little, seemingly unimportant insect like a butterfly could mean great things or even great changes. Also, butterflies could mean freedom or joy - like in Thailand, their hand expressions mean those qualities.
2. What is the importance of the water cycle?
The water cycle is important in which we are able to connect very easily - although it's an obvious process of all means of life. It rains, and in a mountain a river is made, and it flows down and down to a bigger river in a valley, and it crosses it's minor or even major tributaries, and then the ocean. There, the ocean evaporates and water clouds are formed and later on rain again.
3. What is the point about the 'man raising melons'?
Man raising melons is an analogy in how you shouldn't work to hard, or toil. A melon is harder than an apple to raise and pick, so this poem signifies this idea.
4. What is the author attempting to convey to the reader?
It's trying to say...know yourself. Know who you are, and what you want to do. According to Mr. Plouffe, most of the people will be mediocre, obviously since not everyone could be brilliant - than the word brilliant won't be given any meaning... Also, I think it means to live your life. Like Winnie the Pooh's Pooh, give your life happiness and joy, and stay sane. Be childlike, not childish.
September 9th 2011
Shinran Buddhism Sect Presentation w/ Alex/Jungwook
August 31st 2011
religion/philosophy
RELIGION
PHILOSOPHY
Belief in and worship of a God or gods; a particular system of faith and worship.
A belief (or a system of beliefs) accepted as authoritative by some group
or school; any personal belief about how to live or hot to deal with a situation.
WHAT DO RELIGION AND PHILOSOPHY HAVE IN COMMON? And, WHY IS THE STUDY OF RELIGION AND PHILOSOPHY IMPORTANT?
Religion and philosophy both have ways of a set of values and set of beliefs that people should live by. Religion has a figure to respect and belief, and therefore understand life. The study of religion and philosophy is obviously important because we can understand and learn about other cultures and ways of life by this study. Different religions and -isms are just unique, but not wrong. People understand them, but it doesn't necessarily mean to accept it.
30 November 2011
current event Colin ~
Unit IV East Asia in the Age of Imperialism
Unit III Ancient History.
12 October 2011
Christianity in Korea
GROUP 1: Origins of the Korean Church
1. Why do you think the first time Christianity entered Korea, it attracted no converts and had basically no influence on the Korean people or society?
- When Christianity first entered Korea, it attracted no converts and had basically no influence on the Korean people or society since Confucianism was the main philosophy, and since it was brought by the Japanese. Also, it was monotheistic, therefore different than normal.
2. What is unique about how the first Christian church was established in Korea as compared to the formation of early churches in other parts of the non-western world?
- The unique part about the first established Christian church compared to other parts of the non-western world is that they inherited Christianity from China, and was greatly influenced by them.
3. How might this unique start have continued to influence how Christianity is regarded in Korea?
- This unique start might have continued to influence Christianity by being viewed as a Chinese religion. However, Christianity has different beliefs than other systems, such as a promising afterlife, and even equality among all genders, ages, and classes.
- It was brought in by influenced Koreans of Christianity, so it would be sort of more embraced.
First scholars were Confucianist scholars.
First Korean Church established in 1784, by Yi Sunghun and Yi Pyok.
조선 was based on Confucianism, but later Catholicism came in.
- equality, marriage, afterlife (heaven) appealed to lower class and women.
around 8,000
- gained trust from King
- medical schools, schools, education,
23,000-250,000 increase (1000% increase)
삼일운동,1919(march first movement): majority were Christians
여의도: biggest
popularity exponentially increased, second major religion
education and democracy spread.
11 October 2011
Shaminism questions from class groups.
1. How has Shamanism influenced Korea? List three ways.
- able to rely on the spirits during hard times, and receive guidance.
2. Why are fortune-telling and Shamanism still practiced in Korea?
- It's still practiced to earn reliance and gain help to vanish bad spirits.
3. List three questions you believe are most commonly asked of fortune tellers in Korea. Are they markedly different than those questions asked by people in other nations which seek the assistance of a fortune-teller?
- Marriage, money, living long
4. What do these proverbs/maxims (and others that you know) teach you about Korean culture? Why do Koreans use proverbs as a medium to teach and communicate ideas?
- They are easy to connect, and the analogy applies to many people. Although made long ago, they are still prominent.
5. What role do folktales play in all cultures?
- Folktales show how a fortune teller could have a lot of integrity and also sometime can be right, like seeing through the rat (seeing the deep side).
Shintoism & Shaminism
1. Examine the films in Document 6. List all the items found and explain their significance.
- Hanbok: traditional Korean clothing, expressing nationality?
- swords: violence? towards the bad guys, so they go away...
- fan: to blow away the bad guys
- jae-sa table: in remembrance of those, and respecting
- dolls: not so sure, maybe children?
- music: to grab attention
2. Describe your group's feelings in viewing the films.
- I feel that it is a very different approach of 'religion' and not so common to teenagers my age. I've never seen a real performance like that, and I was sort of shocked and confused. Even being a Korean here for about 7 years, I couldn't understand most of the words. I wonder how this all started, and I recall Mr. Plouffe talking about how mudangs get paid a lot. Why?
3. How do the films express Korean religious beliefs and practices?
- The films are sort of too quick to judge Korean religious beliefs and practices just yet, since this is only part of the traditional ways. I think this is kind of too conservative, and seemingly weird from my point of view. It's not only ear-disturbing, but also doesn't seem to impress me.
4. The first film above was shot during a kut after Namdaemun had been burnt down. Explain why this kut was performed?
Namdaemun, or Seoul's south doorway, Soongryemoon, was burnt down by a crazy maniac, and this was done as remembrance of it. Since it was burnt down by an evil spirit, the kut was performed so the evil spirits will vanish as well.
Shintoism Retrieval Chart
Legalism
1. In Han Fei's ideal state what is the supreme governing authority, the will of the ruler or the law?
- In Han Fei's ideal state, the supreme governing authority is the law itself. This is obvious according to a few quotes such as "if conformers to law are strong, [then] the country is strong" and "to govern the state by law is to praise the right and blame the wrong". This makes sense people who make the law are the intelligent leaders, like modern day Congress.
2. What are the "Two Handles" and how important are they to a legalist state? Why must the sovereign never surrender control over the two handles?
- According to Han Fei, the "Two Handles" are chastisement and commendation, which is punishment and praising, respectively. The sovereign should never surrender control over the two handles since their absence may cause calamity, where people would turn to the ministers who have more power --> corruption.
3. What roles do individuality and private initiative play in Han Fei's ideal state?
- Individuality and private initiative play different roles in Han Fei's ideal state. Regarding individuality, it would allow people to gain more independence and think for themselves, following law and order. For private initiatives, it would be crucial to follow the national law and morals, rather than their own set of rules.
4. Why do you think Legalism appealed to some people?
- Legalism appealed to many, not just some. According to the document, "If penalty is severe, the noble cannot discriminate against the humble. lf law is definite, the superiors are esteemed and not violated. If the superiors are not violated, the sovereign will become strong and able to maintain the proper course of government." clearly shows why legislatures embraced Legalism. It was organized, and seemed perfect. However, of course those seemingly idealistic ideas only work if people DO follow the laws...which is difficult to happen 100% of the time.
5. Imagine a series of conversations among a Daoist, a Confucian, and a Legalist. How would each respond on the following issues: What is the purpose of good government? What role does morality play in formulating law? What are the qualities of a superior ruler? The proposition "Might makes right."
- During a series of conversations among a Daoist, a Confucianist, and a Legalist, there will be many overlaps but many major differences. Here is a list of what they will say:
"What is the purpose of a good government?"
D: There is no need of a government. The people should all be independent and know how to act. The government shouldn't be too different from the people.
C: A good government is necessary for people to follow the leader and government. The government should be flawless and a great model.
L: Hence the name, a good government that makes good laws would allow a stable and organized society. Punishing is crucial, so everyone is in order.
"What role does morality play in formulating law?"
D: Taoism is formed with compassion and courage, and naturally forming the law. With these qualities, the Wu Wei would be in a society.
C: All laws should be moral, and should make sense. Considering your family or society is crucial, as well as other Confucianist laws.
L: It doesn't matter who you are, if you did something wrong you need punishment. Not following the law itself is immoral, therefore you deserve punishment.
"What are the qualities of a superior ruler?"
D: A superior ruler must not be greedy, but accepting nature and going with the flow. He should be simple, and be like Winnie the Pooh.
C: He or she should be a good ruler, one who is smart and strong. He must also be just and reasonable. He should be like wind, where if he blows anywhere, the people will be like grass.
L: In Legalism, the leader should be exact with law and follow all means of the law. Also, he should grasp control of the main "Two Handles", chastisement and commendation. He should punish those so no one would dare challenge, and praise those who are right so people would act like them. The ministers should have less power than the ruler.
October 7th 2011
Essential Quotes of Taoism - questions
1. In Lectures on the Tao Teh Ching, Lao-Tzu says, that, "The mystery of the Mysterious is the gateway to all indescribable marvels". Does this quote have an equivalent to in Christianity? Are there other parts of the Tao Teh Ching that remind you of Christian ideals?
- This quote is equivalent to the idea of Heaven in Christianity. In the Holy Bible, no one knows about Heaven, it’s just known as a sacred, holy place, rather than mysterious. In Tao Teh Ching, there was a part where it said “the Tao that can be said is not the everlasting Tao,” and I believe that the way of Tao in general is not mentionable, therefore beyond our own limitations. I saw a similar connection with Christianity, where God is also so superior that we should be careful when mentioning Him. We can see this when people capitalize ‘him’ or ‘he’ or ‘his’. Furthermore, “oh, my God” is also something to be aware of.
2. See Passage 2, "Not honoring men....Not wanting rare things...Not paying attention..." How are does this help one understand how Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism found common ground and were not mutually exclusive belief systems?
- This helps one understand how Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism found common ground and were not mutually exclusive belief systems by many similarities the possess within each other. First, in “Not honoring men of worth keeps the people from competing”, this is exactly what Confucianism wants; the idea of merit and education or skill, rather than filial piety. Second, in “Not wanting rare things keeps the people from thievery,” this shows that you shouldn’t be greedy or desire for more. In Buddhism, we learned that wanting more is what causes suffering, and preventing Nirvana. So we could say the two ideas overlap. Finally, “Not paying attention to the desirable keeps the hearts of the people from disaster” is the Taoist belief that you shouldn’t mind ideas or stuff that is not directly related to you. All of these philosophies (& religion[Buddhism]) coexist and are not mutually exclusive.
3. In Passage 2, what do you think is meant by the lines, "relaxing the mind, reinforcing the abdomen, gentling the will, strengthening the bones"?
- I think the lines "relaxing the mind, reinforcing the abdomen, gentling the will, strengthening the bones" mean the same goal, but in different paths, which are represented in the three main philosophies; Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. “Gentling the will” sounds like alleviate your soul that desires more; this is always discussed in Buddhism. Also, “reinforcing the abdomen” approached me as to strengthen your vertebrate, or back bone. When you have a firm backbone, in other words settled basics, you’ll be able to act accordingly and absorb more information and knowledge. I believed that this was similar to Confucianism, where you want more knowledge. Last, “relaxing the mind” is obviously where in Taoism you want to leave your brain from being to complex; and achieve inner peace with your mind and the nature. Yin and Yang’s balance is important, and I recalled Kung Fu Panda where Po had to achieve inner peace. For “strengthening the bones”, I think it means that after you’re ready, take challenges and make yourself out in the bigger world.
4. Consider the last three entries from D.C. Lau's Lao Tzu: Tao Te Ching, Lao Tzu describes government. How is this ideal different from Confucius' ideal? What present day system of government are you reminded of when you read this section? Do you think this is a good system? Explain.
- This ideal is different from Confucius’ ideal strongly because Lao Tzu doesn’t want a government. His view is that the government shouldn’t be too different from the people. This is obviously contrasting from Confucius’ ideal, since he wanted a strong, set government that sets examples for the people. In other words, the leader or ruler or king should be like the wind, and blow on any kind of grass (people). When reading this section, I was reminded of anarchy, which seems very chaotic. In my opinion, this is a horrible system in which there is no organization and then there won’t be a set way to act. With no unity, a nation would definitely suffer through economic/social/political crisis.
5. Regarding the third treasure that Lao Tzu describes, what do you think is his message? Do you agree? What does this say about people who are ambitious?
- I think Lao Tzu’s message regarding the third treasure is in life, to reach a certain goal you shouldn’t be too desirable, but be modest and stay patient. I am 100% against this. This says that ambitious people are failures, and that they won’t go anywhere. Then I want to ask the question on whether or not being desirable and wanting motivates you. In my opinion, you always need to dream about your future and want what that goal is. Life is for a better you, and it’s just your beautiful, precious life. Wanting to make it shine more and glow in the dark is what everyone should think in society, so he/she can work for that goal and achieve the ecstasy of accomplishment in the end. In conclusion, I would like to address that Lao Tzu’s model is never correct because everyone wants that something, and everything has competition in the world. Having your own accurate set goal will allow you achieve it, not anything else.
September 30th 2011
Taoism Butterfly Poem reflection...
1. Why does the author choose a butterfly?
The author chooses a butterfly because it represents that even a little, seemingly unimportant insect like a butterfly could mean great things or even great changes. Also, butterflies could mean freedom or joy - like in Thailand, their hand expressions mean those qualities.
2. What is the importance of the water cycle?
The water cycle is important in which we are able to connect very easily - although it's an obvious process of all means of life. It rains, and in a mountain a river is made, and it flows down and down to a bigger river in a valley, and it crosses it's minor or even major tributaries, and then the ocean. There, the ocean evaporates and water clouds are formed and later on rain again.
3. What is the point about the 'man raising melons'?
Man raising melons is an analogy in how you shouldn't work to hard, or toil. A melon is harder than an apple to raise and pick, so this poem signifies this idea.
4. What is the author attempting to convey to the reader?
It's trying to say...know yourself. Know who you are, and what you want to do. According to Mr. Plouffe, most of the people will be mediocre, obviously since not everyone could be brilliant - than the word brilliant won't be given any meaning... Also, I think it means to live your life. Like Winnie the Pooh's Pooh, give your life happiness and joy, and stay sane. Be childlike, not childish.
September 29th 2011
Taoism Pooh Questions (32)
September 23rd 2011
Confucius groups (sayings and topics) in class notes
Confucius quote summary/reflection
September 22nd 2011
Confucianism Questions Discussion
September 21st 2011
Confucianism Notes Questions
September 20th 2011
Haven't I Seen You Before...?
Comparison Chart
September 9th 2011
Shinran Buddhism Sect Presentation w/ Alex/Jungwook
August 31st 2011
religion/philosophy
or school; any personal belief about how to live or hot to deal with a situation.
Religion and philosophy both have ways of a set of values and set of beliefs that people should live by. Religion has a figure to respect and belief, and therefore understand life. The study of religion and philosophy is obviously important because we can understand and learn about other cultures and ways of life by this study. Different religions and -isms are just unique, but not wrong. People understand them, but it doesn't necessarily mean to accept it.
My Faith Journey